New Brunswick Secures $270M Deal to Enhance Collaborative Care

The government of New Brunswick is set to finalize a significant agreement worth $270 million with public health-care physicians. This initiative aims to promote a collaborative care model that enhances patient care through teamwork among health professionals. The New Brunswick Medical Society has endorsed the proposed 2025-2029 Physician Services Agreement, which emphasizes increased remuneration, particularly for those participating in collaborative practices.

Health Minister John Dornan highlighted the advantages of this approach, stating, “This collaborative care approach, which involves multiple health professionals working together to address patient needs, is being incentivized because it has proven to deliver more co-ordinated, timely, reliable access to primary care and enhance the overall experience for patients.” He further emphasized the urgent need for more health-care workers across the province, asserting that the new agreement constitutes a vital investment in physician pay and support.

Under the proposed agreement, physicians will receive general economic increases of up to 12.5 percent. Additionally, new compensation models will be introduced, focusing on patient attachment, timely access, and team-based practice participation. These enhancements are intended to attract and retain healthcare professionals in New Brunswick, positioning the province competitively on a national level.

Premier Susan Holt described the agreement as a major milestone in the province’s health care strategy. “By caring for the people who care for New Brunswickers, we are strengthening team-based family health care, improving access to services closer to home, and making our province a place where doctors want to build their careers,” she stated.

Further details about the agreement will be revealed once it is officially signed. The emphasis on collaborative care aims to not only improve the working conditions for physicians but also enhance the quality of care provided to patients throughout New Brunswick. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to address health care challenges and ensure that communities have the necessary support and resources in place.